Our number in the United States: (978) 633-7500

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Learn Spanish abroad in Costa Rica!

Rancho de Español Spanish School is the best place in Costa Rica to learn Spanish. We are one of the first Spanish schools offering immersion programs in Costa Rica with more than 20 years of experience in the field, with the best methodology and the most professional teachers.

Our methods can be personally designed according to the goals of individual students. We are strategically located only 10 minutes from Juan Santa María international airport in la Guácima de Alajuela. Rancho de Español is a school specialized in the education of Spanish as a second language.

We emphasize the improvement of conversational skills of our students, reinforce grammatical knowledge and motivate the utilization of new vocabulary every day. We are also distinguished in the teaching of the most common expressions used throughout Latin America necessary for self−expression and correct comprehension of the Spanish language.

The school is a green oasis in the middle of a small town with landscapes of green mountains. We are located far from the pollution of cities, 30 minutes from Alajuela City, San Jose and Heredia, but close to main tourist routes. It is 40 minutes from Pacific coast beaches. Those who visit Rancho de Español not only learn the language, but also participate in weekend excursions led by the Rancho Tours. Participants not only experience the main tourist attractions, but also lesser-known locations and regional hot-spots such as the beautiful Thermal Baths (Hot Springs). Those looking for adventure may also enjoy Bungee Jumping, Zip-Lining through the rain forest, and Whitewater Rafting. In addition, participants discover our rich cultural traditions and Costa Rica’s natural beauty while interacting with our country’s friendly and hospitable people.

We can specially design each course to meet the specific needs of the age and intentions of individual students. We offer Intensive and regular Spanish courses which include either a homestay program or on-campus lodging, cultural activities such as Latino dancing classes and Costa Rican cooking classes. At the end of your class, you will be able to return to your home to practice what you have learned by speaking with and listening to your Costa Rican family who only speaks Spanish. This opportunity will allow you to master Spanish more quickly. For those who prefer the more private atmosphere at the El Rancho Lodge, we have family suites and standard rooms of double and single occupancy with private bathroom, A/C, Cable TV, solar-heated water and unique decoration. Whether you would like to try authentic Costa Rican cuisine or dishes suited to your individual taste, visit our El Crisol Restaurant, which overlooks the swimming pool.

If you are a professional and want to increase your Spanish knowledge of technical vocabulary related to your field, we also offer specialized Spanish programs such as our Medical & Volunteer Program, Clinical Psychology Spanish Program, Spanish Program for Spanish Teachers, Customer Service Spanish Program and many others. Check out our Special Packages.

We are in harmony with nature. Our philosophy is that in a natural and balanced environment our students will learn better or benefit from what is, according to many, the best climate in the world. Come experience a unique learning atmosphere where one can sunbathe next to our swimming pool, breathes the pure, fresh air of our open cabin-like classrooms surrounded by exotic tropical gardens full of butterflies and birds that make Rancho de Español their home.This provides the perfect atmosphere for students and families to learn the Spanish language. Our commitment is to teach not only the language but also the importance of conservation of the environment to future generations.

The gardens at Rancho de Español epitomize our environmental philosophy: our gardens reflects the rich and diverse species of flora found in Costa Rica, such as the national flower La Guaria Morada, many species of fruit-bearing autochthonous trees of the zone and exotic fruits.